IOM and Migration and Development

Migration and development are highly interdependent processes. Migration cannot be a substitute for development, and development is not necessarily dependent on migration. However, each of these two processes can profoundly influence the other. International migration is the movement of persons from their countries of origin to countries of destination with the intent to remain for an extended stay; in the development context, it relates primarily to people who have freely chosen to move for reasons of personal choice. Development, meanwhile, is a dynamic process implying growth, advancement, empowerment and progress, with the goal of increasing human capabilities, enlarging the scope of human choices, and creating a safe and secure environment where citizens can live with dignity and equality. In the development process, it is important that people’s productivity, creativity, and choices are broadened and that opportunities are created not only for the present generation, but also for future generations.